Process Phase II: Idea Synthesis

Overview

In this phase of the process, the group will use a computer supported method called Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) to obtain synthesis of valued ideas. As its inputs, the method takes the composite list of ideas prepared in Phase I of the managed dialogue, together with a transitive contextual relationship (e.g., Which is most important?; Which is most influential?; Which comes first?; etc.). The computer is programmed to ask the group to compare sets of two ideas at a time drawn from the list in order to find the group evaluation of the selected relationship (e.g., "A" is more important, or more influential, than "B"). These questions are discussed by the group and ultimately answered by a "yes" or "no" response to obtain a simple majority consensus (or a higher level consensus in special cases). The computer makes significant use of logical inferences to decrease the number of questions to be asked. Also the computer determines which question has the best chance of providing maximum information, in order to minimize participant time in evolving the structure. The method develops the structure of the model for the model building group (e.g., selected issues sequenced in appropriate order for Forum discussion) and allows for modification or amendment of the structure so that final group satisfaction with the evolved structure is obtained.

SOURCE: Adapted from J. Warfield, Societal Systems, Planning Policy and Complexity (1976); Thissen, Sage, Warfield, User-Oriented Descriptions of Systemic Methods 10 (July2, 1980) (Fraft) (NSF Workshop, July 14-15, 1980, University of Virginia).